top of page

The worst way to start a job description

Writer's picture: Matthew LernerMatthew Lerner

In the next five years, unemployment rates will be negative in real terms.¹. Your startup is only as good as its people, so hiring is critical.


That’s why I die a little inside when I read a job posting that starts with obviously copied-and-pasted “About Us” text with flowery marketing terms.


Leaders and entrepreneurs — please do not copy and paste your generic company description on top of your job spec’s!


Attention spans are precious and you only have a few seconds to impress candidates. Don’t waste those seconds talking about yourself.


Instead, answer their burning question. “What’s in it for me?” Talk about the opportunity and what they’ll gain from it. (You want ambitious people, right?)


I went ahead and made a Google Doc with a few examples of job description intro's I wrote in the past to help inspire you.


Bonus

Also, I suggest ending your description with a bullet-list about what’s in it for them. Something like “Apply because you want to…”

  • Work with bright curious people

  • Be fully remote

  • Work with a diverse team

  • Be challenged to learn and grow

  • Travel the world

  • Or whatever else your company culture offers...

More on Hiring Top Talent

If hiring top talent is a priority for you, you may also want to check out my eleven previous posts about hiring & leadership including:

  • Growth mindset interview questions

  • Deciding which role to hire next

  • Specific conversations to cultivate a growth mindset


Recent Posts

See All

Hiring: Internal Locus of Control

If I could only hire for one trait... Since 2015, I've interviewed over 100 entrepreneurs and hires, and I've got it down to one trait:...

The Illusion of Knowledge Bias

If a job applicant said "I have no idea how to grow your startup" would you hire them as your VP of Growth? (Because I probably would)....

14 Comments


pyrago
6 days ago

The best thing about birthstone jewelry is that it’s so deeply personal. Wearing my birthstone allows me to feel more connected to myself and the essence lab grown diamond ring of my birth month. It’s a piece of jewelry that truly carries meaning, whether it’s an elegant ring or a charming pendant.

Like

pyrago
6 days ago

The same-day diploma service saved me in a pinch. The entire process was quick, easy, and reliable. I received the diploma on time and was able https://samedaydiplomas.com/ to meet my work deadlines. I’m really happy with the service, and I will definitely keep this option in mind for the future.

Like

pyrago
6 days ago

The live freshwater shrimp I ordered have been great! They arrived in excellent health, were lively, and adjusted quickly to their new environment. https://shrimpupaquatics.com/ They’ve already been working hard to clean my tank and their colors are gorgeous. I’m very happy with my purchase and will definitely purchase from this seller again.

Edited
Like

pyrago
6 days ago

A good bass amp allows you to dial in the perfect mix of warmth, depth, and clarity. Whether you’re playing live or recording, having https://jjmusicsales.com/ an amp that delivers a clean and powerful tone is essential. Some amps even come with built-in effects, making them even more versatile for any bassist.

Like

pyrago
6 days ago

Divorce can be overwhelming, but this family lawyer in Milton helped me through it every step of the way. They provided the guidance I https://thesagelawgroup.ca/ needed, were always available for support, and made sure I fully understood my options. I’m grateful for their expertise and highly recommend their services.

Like
bottom of page